Those who support zoos argue that they can provide several benefits to animals, including:
Conservation and protection: Many zoos actively engage in conservation programs and breeding initiatives to protect endangered species from extinction. Zoos create a refuge for species that require a safe and managed environment due to challenges in their natural habitats.
Rehabilitation: Zoos can play a significant role in the rehabilitation of sick, injured, and orphaned animals by providing specialised care until release back into the wild is possible.
Veterinary care: zoos provide specialised medical facilities that offer animals round-the-clock treatment by experienced veterinarians.
On the other hand, many individuals raise concerns about the potential drawbacks of keeping animals in zoos, such as:
Captivity and restricted movement: animals in zoos, particularly those confined to enclosures, are deprived of space for natural movement and behaviour, leading to boredom, frustration, and stress.
Limited biodiversity: Zoos can house only a fraction of the natural biodiversity across the planet, neglecting many species while potentially focusing on rare or charismatic animals for visitor appeal.
Lack of choice and independence: Animals in zoos are forced to remain in controlled environments and do not have control over food selection, shelter choices, or social interactions as they would in their natural habitats.
These viewpoints reflect contrasting considerations between prioritising animal welfare and preserving species, ethical concerns, potential educational value, conservation efforts, and practical limitations on space and resources. Zoos continually evaluate their standards and procedures aimed at enhancing animal welfare as discussions regarding modern-day zoo operation and captive conservation practices continue.